How to Grow Mrs. J. Bradshaw Avens

Mrs. J. Bradshaw Avens

Geum 'Mrs. J. Bradshaw'

flower

Mrs. J. Bradshaw is a semi-double flowering avens cultivar producing vibrant scarlet-red blooms on upright stems. This herbaceous perennial is valued for its long blooming season and compact growth habit, making it ideal for borders, cottage gardens, and cutting gardens. The plant develops attractive basal rosettes of hairy, lobed foliage.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun to partial shade, ideally 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily

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Water: Moderate water needs; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at soil level to avoid wetting foliage. Reduce watering in winter dormancy.

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Spacing: 12 inches

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Days to maturity: 60-90 days from transplant to first bloom

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Planting depth: Surface sow seeds with light coverage; transplants at same depth as nursery container

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy soil with moderate fertility

pH: 6.0-7.0

Amendments:

compost peat moss perlite or sand for drainage

Growing Zones

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Thrives in zones 3-8, with best performance in cooler climates (zones 4-7)

3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a

Growth Stages

Seedling

3-4 weeks

Tiny seedlings emerge with cotyledons, developing first true leaves with characteristic lobed shape within 2-3 weeks

Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Provide bright light but not intense direct sun. Thin seedlings to prevent crowding.

Rosette Development

4-6 weeks

Plant establishes basal rosette of hairy, deeply lobed foliage, building root system and carbohydrate reserves

Water at soil level to prevent fungal issues on foliage. Begin light fertilizing. Ensure good air circulation.

Bolting & Bud Formation

2-3 weeks

Upright flowering stems emerge from the rosette, typically 18-24 inches tall, with flower buds forming along the stems

Deadhead spent buds to encourage prolonged blooming. Support tall stems with stakes if needed in windy locations.

Flowering

6-12 weeks

Semi-double scarlet-red flowers (1-1.5 inches diameter) open sequentially on stems from mid-spring through summer

Deadhead regularly to extend blooming period. Continue moderate watering. Stake if necessary for support.

Seed Set & Dormancy

4-8 weeks, extending into fall/winter

Flowers fade and give way to fuzzy seed heads (ornamental feature). Foliage begins to decline in hot summer heat

Allow some flowers to remain for seed collection and wildlife benefit. Cut back dead foliage in fall. Reduce watering as plant prepares for dormancy.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Catmint Salvia Delphinium Coral bells Lavender Lupine Foxglove Dianthus

Avoid planting near:

Plants requiring consistently dry soil Heavy feeders that compete aggressively

Common Pests

Remove affected leaves; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil if severe
Increase humidity; spray with water; use miticide if infestation is heavy
Ensure good air circulation; apply sulfur dust or fungicide; avoid overhead watering
and
Handpick; apply copper tape or slug bait; maintain dry foliage

Uses

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Edible Petals & Root Flavoring

Culinary

The scarlet petals are edible with a subtle clove-like flavor and make attractive garnishes for salads and desserts. Geum species have historically been used to flavor drinks and preserve extracts from their roots. [source]

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Traditional Herbal Remedy

Medicinal

Geum species have been used in herbal medicine for astringent and digestive properties, particularly for gastrointestinal issues. The roots contain tannins valued in traditional herbalism. [source]

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Cut Flowers & Floral Design

Craft

Mrs. J. Bradshaw produces excellent long-lasting cut flowers with vibrant scarlet blooms ideal for cottage garden bouquets, wedding arrangements, and dried flower crafts. The fuzzy seed heads are also ornamental when dried. [source]

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Pollinator Support

Wildlife

The abundant semi-double flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects throughout the long blooming season. Seed heads provide sustenance for seed-eating birds in fall and winter. [source]

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Garden Border & Container Specimens

Household

The compact, upright form and long blooming season make Mrs. J. Bradshaw excellent for perennial borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, and container plantings where its scarlet flowers provide consistent color. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Cut flowers in early morning when blooms are fully open but still firm. Hold stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching. Flowers last 5-7 days in a vase. For seed heads, allow flowers to dry on the plant, then collect when papery and brown.

Fun Facts

🌱 Mrs. J. Bradshaw was named after the wife of the breeder who developed this cultivar in the early 20th century; it remains one of the most popular Geum varieties over 100 years later.
🌱 The common name 'Avens' comes from the Latin 'avencia,' and various Geum species have been used in herbal medicine and flavoring since medieval times, including in 'clove root' preparations.
🌱 The fuzzy seed heads are technically achenes with feathery styles called 'awns,' which aid in wind dispersal and create attractive ornamental features when left on the plant through fall.

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